6 Tips for Removing Stains from Ceramic Tile Floors

However, there is still a chance that your ceramic tile flooring can be stained, especially if it is a lower-quality tile or an old floor. Even then, new floors can still be stained, no matter their material. Ceramic tile, though, is your best bet for flooring that will resist permanent damage.

What do you do then, when your ceramic tile flooring is stained? While you can easily and inexpensively replace the current, stained tile with new flooring in Bradenton, FL, you might want to try to salvage what you have first. Below are 6 common techniques for removing stains from ceramic tile flooring. While a variety of materials can stain a floor--even a high-quality one--this article discusses stains as a general term. There is a chance that one of these techniques will not be effective based on your exact type of floor and the nature of the staining substance:

1. Food-related stains can occasionally sink through the porous but shiny finish that forms a protective top layer on tile. To remove these stains, first try sweeping the floor to remove loose substances, then vacuuming it to try to absorb any substance matter. Next comes the hard work. Apply ordinary dish soap to the rough end of a sponge and get to rubbing. Let the soap sit for a few minutes, then gently wipe it away with a wet rag.

2. Another option is to use bleach. Bleach has wonderful cleaning properties and can even dye away the bright hues of stains. It is a common and reliable stain fighter. However, bleach can potentially warp or discolor tiles, especially if they are brightly colored. It should be effective on a white floor, though.

3. Hydrogen peroxide is a great cleaning agent, as it oxodizes stain matter and allows it to rise to the surface, at which point you can simply wipe it away. Many home and business owners are against using tough chemicals like this on their flooring, but it should be strong enough to take out a severe stain.

4. Professional steam-cleaning services can actually service hard floors. Steam heat and the professional-grade cleaning agents involved in the process can tackle stains and restore your entire floor. However, if it is ineffective, your stained area or areas will be even more glaring, as they will leave their color on a floor that is otherwise pristine and clean.

5. An unusual but possible method for removing tough stains from ceramic tile floors involves diluted muriatic acid. If this chemical does not sound familiar to you, that is just fine; it is not commonly used for home or business cleaning. However, it is the secret technique used by many professionals to restore stone and tile floors. It is usually effective, but it is an intense process. Ventilation, protective eyewear, masks, and strong gloves must be enforced for all involved, as this chemical is a severe acid that is highly dangerous to humans. A few small drops of the acid must be mixed with water. A gentle brush must be used to apply the solution to the stained areas of the floor. Because of its dangerous properties and the expense of making preparations to use diluted muriatic acid to begin with, many home and business owners opt out of using it.

6. If the stain touches your grout and none of the above methods are effective, you may have to replace the grout in that area. Many home improvement stores carry grout-removal tools. While you are there, you can also take in a sample of your grout to find replacement grout to fill the hole you are about to make. Follow the directions on the product for proper application.

Of course, there is a chance that none of these methods will be effective on your ceramic tile floor. For these stains that are too tough to tackle, consider finding replacement flooring in Bradenton, FL, at least for the troubled tiles.

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